An estimated 25 percent of returning U.S. service members will experience combat-related problems such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury (TBI), depression or anxiety disorders. More veterans are committing suicide than are dying in combat overseas – 1,000 former soldiers receiving care from the Department of Veterans Affairs attempt suicide every month. About 50,000 veterans are experiencing chronic homelessness, according to nonprofit housing group HELP USA. And the unemployment rate for 18 to 24-year-old veterans is 21 percent, much higher than the 16.6 percent rate for non-veterans of the same age.

Are you a Veteran? Do you or a family member experience PTSD? See below for NAMI resources or opportunities to be a volunteer and get involved in making a difference for other Vets.

NAMI NC Veterans Council

NAMI Veterans Resource Center

Resources:

Legislation: Click HERE to read SB597, passed 6/15/11, which includes important provisions that will improve access to behavioral health services for service men and women, veterans, and their families
Coaching Into Care: press release from the Department of Veterans Affairs on VA’s Telephone Service that Helps Family Members Encourage Veterans to Seek Medical Care